After outgrowing a high chair, toddlers typically transition to using a booster chair.
The Next Step: Booster Chairs
As a child grows and is ready to leave the high chair behind, the next common step for seating at the family table is a booster chair. Booster chairs are designed to elevate a child so they can sit comfortably and safely at the table with their family, using a regular chair.
According to the provided reference, booster chairs are specifically meant to facilitate the transition of a toddler from a high chair. Their primary function is to help a young child achieve the correct height when seated at a standard table. This is important because, ideally, a child's food should be no higher than their chest level. A booster seat ensures they can easily see their food and interact with the family at the table.
Why Use a Booster?
Booster chairs offer several advantages during this transition phase:
- Proper Height: They lift the child to the appropriate height to comfortably reach the table and see their meal.
- Integration: They allow the child to join the family at the main dining table in a regular chair, fostering a sense of inclusion.
- Safety: Many models include straps to secure the booster to the chair and a harness to keep the child in place, providing a safer seating option than just putting them directly on a standard chair before they are tall enough.
- Portability: Boosters are often more compact and portable than high chairs, making them convenient for travel or eating out.
This transition marks a milestone in a child's independence, allowing them to sit like a "big kid" while still providing the necessary support and height adjustment.
